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'Samurai Shodown Sen' (X360) Gets Euro Date - Screens

Samurai Shodown Sen is the 11th game in SNK's classic Japanese weapons-based fighting series and the fourth in the 3D series. The game takes place in Japan during the twilight of the turbulent Edo period, and promises to be the most brutal and visceral chapter in the Samurai Shodown series' history.

Originally released in Japanese arcades, Samurai Shodown Sen follows a young European girl named Suzu, rescued from a sinking ship off Japan's coast, adopted by the Amori Clan and raised as Princess Suzu. A decade later she saves Takechiyo, a self-proclaimed master of martial arts, after his ship sinks and he ends up washed on the beach; soon after this chance meeting, the tables turn when Princess Suzu mysteriously disappears and Takechiyo pledges to find his missing rescuer.

Staying close to its roots, alongside Princess Suzu, Takechiyo and a host of new characters, a plethora of old favourites from the series have been faithfully incorporated, including Haohmaru, Galford, Hanzo Hattori, Nakoruru and Ukyo Tachibana- taking the warriors to over 20 in total. Players can become any one of these unique fighters via the Xbox Live online entertainment network, to battle friends to see who can reach the top of a worldwide online ranking system.

"We're delighted to announce the release date for Samurai Shodown Sen," says Martin Defries, managing director, Rising Star Games. "As an exclusive Xbox 360 title, gamers will be clamouring to get their hands on this game. Not only does the Samurai Shodown series have incredible heritage, but the fact it's still evolving 16 years down the line after 10 solid instalments proves that gamers' appetites are as strong as ever for this classic fighting franchise."

Each character has its own unique backstory and stats sheet, with each adopting varied, yet personalised sword styles, such as the Korean spear fighter Kim, along with contemporary, artistic techniques from J, the afro samurai and Gallows, the axe-wielding Viking.

Plus, the Power Slash lives on in Samurai Shodown Sen, allowing brutal vertical and horizontal slashes to enemies, while Rage Explosion increases attack power and Guard Shatter moves render opponents defenceless. Devastating damage can also be caused by a weapon attack followed by 'issen', a deadly finishing move.

A true classic, the Samurai Shodown series made its debut on the NEOGEO over 16 years ago, notching up over 10 instalments across a variety of formats, reinforcing the longevity and durability of the franchise. Samurai Shodown Sen marries the tradition of the series to the high definition of the Xbox 360, introducing new characters and fighting skills, while remaining loyal to existing favorites.